Amtrak California Zephyr from Chicago to San Francisco
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- čas přidán 14. 06. 2024
- Amtrak’s California Zephyr will blow your mind. If you’re thinking of taking the ultimate Amtrak train journey, watch this!
With its unmatched scenery, Amtrak’s California Zephyr should top not just your train trip list, but your entire travel bucket list.
In this video, we’ll travel from Chicago to San Francisco onboard Amtrak’s California Zephyr in a luxurious Bedroom, the ultimate Amtrak Train accommodation. We’ll also explore the California Zephyr Roomette to see how big that train accommodation really is!
And, for the first time ever, I’ll even show you the shower on the California Zephyr.
You’ll see the sights, the food, and gain insight into what it’s like to travel on Amtrak’s most scenic train: The California Zephyr.
Amtrak’s California Zephyr train was named for the original train operated jointly by the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad; the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad; and the Western Pacific Railroad. It was inaugurated March 19, 1949.
From its earliest days, the marketing and advertising for the California Zephyr train route has focused on the spectacular views along the way. And, in this video, you will see why!
This video started with five and a half hours of raw California Zephyr footage, distilled down to the best. That was a tough task because nearly every mile of the California Zephyr’s 2,438 mile journey was spectacular.
0:00 Introduction to the California Zephyr
2:48 Boarding the California Zephyr
13:10 Starting Day Two of the California Zephyr
16:02 Ultimate California Zephyr Rocky Mountain Views
24:17 Starting Day Three of the California Zephyr
32:37 Bloopers
For more trip reports, please subscribe to my channel!
www.JebBrooksFlies.com
Don’t miss my video about Amtrak’s Empire Builder:
• Amtrak Empire Builder ...
And here’s a link to the video we made about Amtrak’s Southwest Chief:
• Amtrak Southwest Chief...
Here's a video I made comparing Amtrak's Acela to a plane:
• Train vs. Plane RACE B...
And, while we’re at it, here’s a playlist of all of the train videos on my channel:
• Jeb Brooks Train Videos
Want a t-shirt like mine? Here’s a link [not sponsored]
the-air-current.myshopify.com...
For some amazing Amtrak drone footage, check out Ryan's channel here:
• Railfanning from the Sky
Check me out on Instagram:
/ jebbrooksflies
Check me out on Twitter, too:
/ jebbrooks
And don't forget to take a look at my travel blog:
greenergrass.com/
Music:
The Twelve Spies - Silver Maple
Candle Light - dream
Ring Wear Saga - Dusty Decks
Illusory Motion - Gavin Luke
Way Out West - Epocha
La Ciudad - El Equipo Del Norte
For Those Who Know - Gavin Luke
Swirly Bird - Arc De Soleil
The Break of Dawn - Christoffer Moe Ditlevsen
Think About You (Instrumental Version) - Sture Zetterberg
Second Wind - Northside
In the Tunnels - Ethan Sloan
A Gentle Invitation - Dawn, Dawn, Dawn
Today Is a Good Day to Live (Instrumental Version) - John T. Graham
Evergreen Fields - Tape Machines
I’ve Been Thinking of Ways to Leave You (Instrumental Version) - Staffan Carlen
Sandcastle - Magnus Ludvigsson
No One Is Safe Here - Kikoru
Living Life - DJ DENZ The Rooster
Chaos Theory - Ava Low
The Fight (Instrumental Version) - Amos Noah
Uphill Aspiration - Trevor Kowalski
The Street Performer - The Fly Guy Five
Fortune of Hearts - Hailman
I’ve never traveled by train. I just booked this trip with a bedroom for my wife and I in 2024 because of this video and the work you do. Thanks for all the hard work.
❤Psalms 115:16 As for the heavens, they belong to Jehovah, But the earth he has given to the sons of men. ❤Psalms 37:29 The righteous will possess the earth, And they will live forever on it. ❤Psalms 37:34 Hope in Jehovah and follow his way, And he will exalt you to take possession of the earth. When the wicked are done away with, you will see it.
우와 ❤시편 115:16 하늘은 여호와의 것이나 땅은 사람의 아들들에게 주셨다. ❤시편 37:29,34 의로운 자들은 땅을 차지하고 거기서 영원히 살 것이다. [...] 34 여호와께 희망을 두고 그분의 길을 따라라. 그러면 그분이 너를 높여 땅을 차지하게 하시리니, 악한 자가 없어질 때에 네가 그것을 볼 것이다.
Post a video of how it went!
I am giving a moment of respect for the workers who sacrificed their lives to build railway tracks on such dangerous conditions like the Rocky Mountains about 100+ years ago.
Big FACTS
Me too, such a meaningful thought.
virtue signaling time
No lives were sacrificed to build railway tracks. There is no exchange for trading humans for tracks and no martyrs of railroading. Lives were occasionally lost in industrial accidents just as they are every day.
@@mwilliamshs if people die due to unnecessary dangers cuz some big wig wanted to save a few cents, its much more than just “an accident”
Good job, my Uncle and I took this adventure together last September for his 75th Birthday. He lived in KY and I live in So Cal. We met in Chicago seeing each other for the first time in 33 years. Then we flew together back to S Cal, and unfortunately he died before making back home to KY, completely unexpected. So glad we took this wonderful adventure together!
So sorry for your loss. I'm happy though for you that you got the opportunity to spend time with him before the end. Thanks for sharing your story.
My condolences to you🙏🏽. Sounds as if he was happy in his last days💙🤍🙏🏽 That says so much 💙🤍🙏🏽
I often dream of people at train stations right before they pages on....so your story really hits 💙🤍🙏🏽
Remember him always 💙🤍🙏🏽
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that having spent his last hours in your company on such a wonderful trip brings you some solace. Again, my condolences to you.
@@sandrahazeltine8720 Thank you so much! My Uncle coincidentally said several times on the trip, he thought he had died and gone to Heaven, cause it was so beautiful!
Sorry to hear of your loss.
Hi, I am from Bangladesh. Inspired by your video, I took this train and travelled for 52 hours from Chicago to San Francisco (and created memories of a lifetime). Thank You!
That’s awesome!
How was it?
Several years my wheelchair-bound wife and I took the Zephyr from Chicago to Emeryville. We had a handicap sleeper room and it was GREAT! The attendants were all very accommodating and the food was good. When we got into the Rockys and moved through Donner Pass, an historian got on board and narrated the journey, it was wonderful.
I had the same experience, in November 2009, with my wife who had mobility issues, attendant brought all meals to room as she could not negotiate the stairs.
Was it expensive 🤔
@@PetsNPatients I don't remember the exact cost but it wasn't that expensive. Of course my wife got a real discount because of her disability as did I, being considered her caregiver. Amtrak offered a lot of discounts for handicap travel.
@@technicholls6022 That’s really good to know about the discounts. When I have looked into the wheelchair rooms, the prices have been stratospheric, way above regular fares. I’ll have to check it out again.
@@wendyannh let us know how it turns out for you.
man, this guy is so wholesome. positive vibes all the way
That’s what I was thinking. I hate him for it. Hahahahah.
My son and I were on this trip with you! You can clearly see us in the observation car several times during the trip through the Rockies (we are in the window reflection at 16:40). It was such a fantastic adventure and we enjoyed meeting you. Going to take the same route with my daughter soon and I'm super stoked to show her the gorgeous views as well.
We appreciate your videos of our trains!! I have worked at the maintenance facility in Beech Grove Indiana for 25 years!! Our facility is huge,with some of the most talented train mechanics in the world!! Really enjoyed you guys showcasing what we work on every day!! Thanks for the video!!
How much is a trip from Chicago to San Fran and is it the same trip back?
Much appreciation for the work you guys do to keep the trains rolling safely down the tracks. Thank you guys!
grdhdrhrd
It's too bad the amtrak station in Indy is so atrocious. I won't use it -- I fly to Chicago and take trains from there. The Indy station is dangerous.
In 1965 , My Nana took a train fron NYC to Los Angeles,CA as a single mother with 4 kids. Her strength and will-power was passed down to all of us
I smiled when I came across your comment, well that's wonderful but how are you doing and where are you from?, Please don't mind me asking you how are you doing but I know that's not bad question, will be happy to receive your reply, thanks.
Maybe you could do a trip in her honour as a special trip? Grandparents are so special!❤😢🕊❤
"as i slept we passed through nebraska." Perfect timing.
Nebraska is the most boring state in America.
@@fivestarpups7161 im from nebraska and i kinda agree with you but we’re not as boring as wyoming which is a plus
@@akoll6138 nah at least Wyoming is exciting with its world destroying volcano sitting underneath
"That John Denver was Full of Sh*t" Dumb & Dumber
@@akoll6138 wyoming has yellowstone, nebraska has what? runza? no thanks
As airplane travel becomes even more unbearable (unruly passengers, squeezing ourselves into smaller and smaller seats), and remote work becoming more common, train travel in The United States could see a resurgence. I hope so!!! I love traveling by train. So relaxing and comfortable. There’s room to spread out and the view is more interesting than the view from an airplane. I am crossing my fingers that Americans will support a more robust train system in this country.
I agree, but it feels like that already
Booking the California Zephyr 4 Montgs in advance, and 80% was already booked out
@@franciscoungerlopez7360 Amtrak's booking is deceptive. It may say 80% booked, when in actuality it's 20% booked.
@@michaelbaxter1564 omg, really?
that's horrible. I did not know that
Oh I totally agree! More relaxing and dignified. I will be traveling by Train from now on, and loving it!!!
Me too!
My wife passed away suddenly November 2008. I decided in January to go visit my brother in Santa Cruz California to clear my head. I jumped on the train in Exton PA and went out to Chicago where I got on the Zephyr. What a fantastic, therapeutic ride it was. I would urge everyone to take the Zephy as I doubt there's a more scenic route on Amtrak' map. Doing the journey in the middle of January was just an added bonus. Met a lot of nice people and the staff were awesome!
How much was the cost for trip? Was it as nice as this gentleman says? My wife and i live in Pottstown and want somthing like this to do for a vacation
@@donalddobson7568 The one way price from Exton to Emeryville was about $500, that was for a roomette. I had a sleeper from Pittsburgh to CA. The price included 3 meals a day, and the food was pretty darn good!
I would highly recommend it going out. IIt was actually rather boring from Ohio to Denver as the topography is flat as a pancake.
I think winter is the best time to go as the Rockies are really beautiful covered in snow! I would definitely go for the bigger sleeper compartment if I went with someone else!
I think its fantastic you found some closure in such a beautiful adventure. I hope you’re doing well, brother.
@@The1jonnyz
Because the Earth is Flat.
I swear we take this country for granted sometimes, I’ve been to many places around the world, but nothing will ever come close to home. We may have our differences but when watching videos like this, it makes me realize just how close we are as well. I wish we could stop all this ridiculous in-fighting and come together as a country again🇺🇸💐
Well said my friend
If people put politics aside, it can be done, but right now it's impossible
Amen to that!
yep. People need to realize how good we have it here in America. While its marginallly worse than europe, its not brazil/africa level.
@@honkhonk8009 I’ve been to many parts of Europe and trust me when I say this; I’d rather be in places like Utah or Montana than Poland or parts of Germany like Berlin. We don’t hear about how bad it is over there because most of the attention is on the US, but it’s pretty bad, and I’m not just talking about Eastern Europe.
Tipping the Attendant is definitely a must for all of their hard work.
As a young child I rode this route when it was operated by the private companies before Amtrak was a thing. One thing I remember was the difference in the dining. It looks like the food now is pre-packaged and heated before serving. Back in the past, the food was prepared fresh, and everything looked much better than what I saw in the video. It was really amazing back then. I wish everyone could experience train travel as it was back in its heyday. You would love it!
I respectfully disagree, sir. Amtrak's dining services are MUCH more better than the airlines (peanuts and a soda [if you're lucky enough to get peanuts and a soda on an airplane!])!
@@mikewrasman5103 I haven't tried the Amtrak food, but I suspect it isn't any better than the food served on airplanes. From the video I think I would rather take my chances on the airlines. I am not talking about the peanuts served on short domestic flights, rather what is served on long haul flights. I have no trouble flying a couple hours without a meal. On the trans-pac flights I have flown on it is long enough that you do want a meal and they do a decent job of feeding you from my experience. It isn't haute cuisine but it is a decent meal considering the limiting circumstances of serving a meal on an airplane. None of it can compare to the food service that was offered on the trains back when they were run by private rail companies.
@@badgermoon9229 I agree. Amtrak is comparable to airline food, but neither of them can hold a candle to the back-in-the-day streamliners. I was only born in 1989, so no personal experience, but back when train travel was commonplace instead of a novelty, railroads used very good food and food service as marketing to distinguish themselves.
-The New York Central's advertisements informed the discriminating diner that the best restaurant in Manhattan left town every evening on the Twentieth Century Limited for Chicago
-The Great Northern would serve Montana trout caught that day on its flagship the Empire Builder
-The Northern Pacific's famous Big Baked Potato was literally the size of adult's lower arm.
These are just the ones I can think of off the top of my head, but look up images of the railroad menus from that era and you'll get an idea. Also, every railroad who was anybody at all would (of course) use their own unique china (which is now very collectible).
@@sturmovik1274 Having been on trains in the fifties and early sixties I can confirm what you have posted.
@@badgermoon9229 Have to admit, I am jealous of you for having experienced that era in rail travel. Also, you may enjoy visiting a CZcams channel called Periscope Films; they specialize in uploading videos from the 1940s - 1970s and there are several wonderful old rail travelogues from that era, among many others.
Ex-Amtrak Engineer here, I have run the Empire builder and the Coast Starlight thru the Cascades, was unique experience for me. Both trains had two P-42's on the head end also. Lots of good power.
Both of which rival the Zephyr for scenery.
Jiuui
@@kwameofosu8799 sorry, no savi
Actually there is no dash in the P42DC
@@DanTDMJace Right
I took this train when I was a kid leaving from Chicago with a final destination of Albuquerque. One of the best trips of my life. My mom and I didn't have a sleeper car so we had to sleep in the chairs both nights. Totally worth it. Some day I want to relive the experience with my wife and kids.
that's the southwest chief, not the zephyr :)
I told my husband I wanted to take the Amtrak Crescent from Wilmington, DE to New Orleans. As a kid, I took the train with my family every summer until high school to visit my family in Lafayette.
Did you send anybody a postcard once you got there?
Is this a breaking bad refenrence?
did u see a dude named Walter in Albuquerque
I'm 79yrs old and I thank you for this info. A trip like this is number one on my Bucket List
I'll always love ❤️ what Amtrak's mode of travel, brings to the table literally. Smile. Lol.
Excellent format of viewing the accomodations, the expertise itself, the professinalism, diligence, timely, even with delays. The respect and reputation the Amtrak crews,
have shown duration of a sick passenger. Who had to be transported to, an area hospital. Commendable.
Their patience was a virtue, at that time. Persevering the odds and being resilient as ever.
I give Amtrak a 5-Star,
Blue Ribbon, and a Placque.
Well deserved! Amtrak and its
entire fleet of rail cars.
Superb logo their distinguished signature imprint. KUDOS!!
Patience is a virtue. Time is of essence. Amtrak is outstanding.
This deserves to be on Netflix. Very well done!!
No
Wow!! Thanks so much!
Absolutely agree !! This was so amazing
Yes
I cannot stand people talking to me with a diaper on their face. It is obscene. Thumbs down. Also, in an age that most advanced countries have high speed railways travelling at 300+ km/h, American railways are 3rd world.
Speaking as an Australian who lived in California for over four years, I was in awe of the geography/topography and variation of landscapes across the United States. My conclusion, and I think what you’ve demonstrated in this vlog Jeb, is that the very nature of American culture/character is so influenced by the majesty and wonder of the land itself. Great to see your passion shine through in this enjoyable vlog. I hope one day I can travel the section as suggested to Denver. Cheers👍
I hear Australia is beautiful too. And NZ. Would love to go sometime ❤️
@@michaelhurley3171 As a Brit who’s been to all three countries I must admit the USA has the most variety, amazing country and the people I’ve met have been great.
You can’t beat nature in the states. Every state is so unique. A country in itself. The greatest thing ever conceived I think here in the states are the national parks. As a nature lover, I do feel blessed.
@@marcgardner868 I took trains in England and loved them so much! The people were so friendly.
Australia, the US, and the UK are all amazing countries.
As an Iowan, I love hearing someone mention how beautiful the state can be and also mentioning some points of interest. It really makes me miss living there. Also as an Iowan, I can't help but smile and chuckle to see you slept through Nebraska.
This brings back so many good memories. I took the California Zephyr with my son to Albuquerque for a bowling tournament. He was floored at the size of the train. He was also slightly terrified by how we moved between cars, but he caught on quickly. I want to take another train trip soon.
Two bonus notes: (1) At the time, it was cheaper to drive from Detroit to Chicago, park the car, and take the train with luggage/bowling equipment than it was to fly. (2) When we were about to board, my son said “YOU MEAN TO TELL ME WE’RE GETTING ON THAT?!?!” 😂
The Southwest Chief, not the Zephyr, runs through Albuquerque.
@@DanielNighteyes whoops, you’re right 😊
Not many people can make a 35 minute trip report exciting from the beginning to the end these days! Thank You for that! :) :)
Define, 'many'.
You kidding right? There tons of videos done by a single CZcamsr. May be CZcams algorithm never showed you one
I agree. It was wonderful.
@@MusicIsBestDrug Your point? They obviously liked this one. Doesn't mean they haven't watched others.
Yes! I,want to do this for my 70th birthday in September!
That's great
So do I, I'm celebrating my 68 bday in Sept!!! Happy trails
Don't wait too long guys , something in trains smells like freedom :)
I’m doing it for my 65th birthday in September 🤓
I’m gonna do it for my 40th 😀
Train travel with a few comforts is 'slow' travel at its best. The one positive with the pandemic is many of us can now appreciate a slower pace.
This brings back great memories!! I traveled to California on the CZ years ago to visit my brother. On my return trip, there was a snow storm and we ended up stopping for 12+ hours while waiting for snow to be cleared from the tracks -apparently the first attempt failed due to faulty equipment, so a replacement had to be retrieved. Some of the passengers were so irate and rude, but the conductor and crew remained professional and calm the entire time - reassuring we would be updated as new information came in. Everyone, no matter their riding status, was checked on and taken care of. Unfortunately, not the greatest time for some, but I had a blast - met some interesting people! Thank you for posting♥️
"Boarding anything is exciting!" That is for sure, and I so miss it!
Took The Zephyr from Emeryville to Denver, and back, with my youngest daughter when she was 4. It was quite an adventure and the first time see saw big mountains and touched snow! That was 20 years ago so now she's 24 and we both really appreciate those memories and that trip. Thanks Amtrak!
Wuo
How was taking the train with a toddler? We have 2 kids, 6 and 4.
@@stefaniemedina14 It was a great adventure. We had regular seats and enjoyed being around regular people. We were offered a discounted price room after boarding by the conductor but we kept it cheap and simple. The glass top car shows movies at night and offers great views during daytime so we spent quite a bit of time there. We met some interesting people and saw a lot of beautiful countryside while making memories that we'll never forget on that ride
You should be thanking the tax payers too, we paid for most of your trip. Amtrak gets huge subsidies to stay afloat.
@@mrsleep0000 Not as much as the interstate freeway system and air traffic control.
Great video on the "Zephyr". I worked this train for many years as a Train Attendant, Lead Service Attendant (Bar & Diner), and finally as Chief-OBS. It as great to see the scenery again! You did a great job!!!
Man...The Rocky Mountains are something else. I've lived nearly my whole life here and I still tear up sometimes while traveling into them.
I am not from the USA, but have taken 17 vacation trips to the USA. My favourite trip was an Amtrak trip from Chicago to Seattle and back to Chicago. We stopped off in Whitefish Montana for 2 weeks of snow skiing (early January 2008). I want to go back to the USA and do more Amtrak travel. Love that you can stop off anywhere on route, and get on the next Amtrak train that passes.
i dont think the last part is true, you have to stay on the train that youre originally checked into.
@@ws6705 No, I had an Amtrack pass. It allowed me to get off the train and take a later train. If I remember correctly, the Amtrak pass allowed me to change trains 5 or 6 times, as long as I used the same route (same final destination)
17 trips? WOW
That is the Empire Builder. A really beautiful trip through some wonderful country
I also like trains, once every 10 or 20 years, but if you're vacationing a new country, simply rent a car. It gives you so much more flexibility.
My 6 year old daughter and I took this from Chicago to Davis over Christmas 2 years ago. We were both in awe of the scenery and no boredom.
I would want to do that so much as I am from Davis!
This video has inspired me to plan the vacation of a lifetime - traveling across the country by train! Thank you so much for these breathtaking videos!! 🙏
I took this train with my wife, from Denver to Las Vegas, when we travelled across the USA after she became pregnant and we knew that the opportunity to travel would soon be limited. Professional staff, beautiful scenery and also had really decent fellow passengers. Still a better experience than most long distance trains here in Australia.
21:27 Just be glad you got a moon and not a sun dial
Fun fact: Reno used to have an above-ground railway that would take you directly through downtown, but as the city grew it became too much of a hindrance to have trains running in the middle of the city. Like the rails would literally intersect the main roads at ground level, forcing people to wait for the trains to pass. So to bypass this problem, they dug a gigantic trench under the city and ran the trains through there. Not the best traveling experience but a lot more convenient for the people who lived/worked downtown. Source: Reno resident.
It didn't only take you through downtown Reno, there was a station there as well.
As a Reno native, I can also add that the trains had to blow their horns at each intersection, through a downtown filled with hotels/casinos full of (trying to) sleeping tourists. I strongly recommend you come back. Yes, you can enjoy casinos and such if you like, but there are restaurants, cool clubs, arty districts, art museum, music festivals, etc. that really give Reno its character. Not to mention surrounded by mountains and 40 min from Lake Tahoe, Donner Lake (yes, that Donner) and skiing galore. And 30 miles from Virginia City. If you recall the opening title of "Bonanza" and the map it showed, well that's us.
P.S. My mother used to take the California Zephyr from Naperville, IL to Reno, NV back in the 50's. She always talked about the "Vista Dome" back then, so it was great to finally see it in your video. Thank you!
@@renodeeg
I was just thinking about the Reno station. I remember it being above ground too and yes having to wait for passenger or freight trains to pass thru an intersection was at times daunting. Just out of curiosity is Greyhound still in the same spot across from that fantasy hotel?
My father worked for the Illinois Central RR for 40 years after returning from WWII. He was from Chicago (where I grew up) and my mom was from Florida. So every year when I was a kid, we took the City Of Miami to visit family in Florida. Talk about food! The ICRR Pullman cars had the best dining car food on the planet! Sadly, the City Of Miami (Chicago to Miami) no longer exists. But ever since then, train travel has always been a part of my life. You cannot grow up in Chicago without trains being in your face! I've done the California Zephyr, Empire Builder, City Of New Orleans, Coast Starlight, Illini and Saluki, the Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg (a ton of times in college), Lincoln Service, and a few others that don't exist anymore. The Zephyr used to have a link at Salt Lake City that went up to Portland, Oregon via Boise, Idaho along the Columbia River, then met the Coast Starlight to go up to Seattle. I took that a few times when I was in the military, stationed in Tacoma, WA in the mid - 1980s.
BTW - My favorite accommodation is the 1st Class Bedroom. I've done them all. I love your videos; both planes and trains. I am dying to do the Rocky Mountaineer! I've been to Glenwood Springs a couple of times, Moab, UT and all of those places way back in the 1970s. Hope to do that trip by train rather than car next time!
Regards, Chris M
Amen. Gratitude for Amtrak in having such staying power. 🙏🏻 I'm happy as a Jaybird and a Chessy Cat. ❤😊👍💯%🥰
Although I haven't gotten a chance, to ride Amtrak's long distance travel, aboard the Southwest Chief. Which leaves officially from Chicago's terminal. Amazing! When that time comes I'll be sure, to book a bedroom. Family status for 4 accommodations, in the sleeping car. A good thing in
having an in- room bathroom.
Enjoying the scenic views will be awesome. From those windows of pleasure. Love ❤️ the commute of Diesel train travel, not short lived. The everloving sounds of clanging bells. And horn signals along the tracks, the stretch of rails which Amtrak, itself glides so well. Amicably pleasurable to be a part of, great possibilities.
Videos are a welcoming treasure to behold. And yess, I'm deeply appreciative to savor the moment, of train travel experience the best ever. ❤
I'm from the 50's throughout, so I'm loving this. KUDOS!! CHEERS!! CELEBRATION!! PERFECTO!! BRAVO!! Amtrak, you're a passenger's dream come true. Yayy!! Wahoo!!
I'm ecstatic period. This moment right now, as Jeb and his friends collaborate, duration while in.transit. A hotel on wheels is everything. Nonstop!!
Really enjoy this adventure provided as such.
Thank yuu soo very much,
Amtrak personnel, colleagues, Superiors, attendants, travel consultants, etc. You're the bestof the best, amongst the rest. Engineers, Conductors, Baggage handlers, Ticket agents, and all other who've made it, possible for us to board, depart, and arrive to our destinations.
Took the Zephyr from Chicago to Granby, Colorado for a backpacking trip in September of 2019. Amazing experience! I come from a "railroad family" - my dad was a locomotive engineer, both grandfathers were rail car inspectors, an uncle was a yardmaster and an aunt was a crew dispatcher. Trains are in my blood. I absolutely love riding the rails on cross country trips. You can't beat the scenery, the sunsets and sunrises, the relaxed rhythm of the rails and most importantly, the people you meet during long days and nights aboard a train. Thanks for sharing!
The view of the mountains and snow in CO was amazing.
America is so beautiful and I love these You Tube videos.....it lets me travel and enjoy via Jeb videos. Thanks Jeb
From a fellow Greensboro resident, I would suggest tipping generously at the beginning of the trip and tip generously again at the end of the trip. Your car attendant can do a lot to make your trip more pleasant.
88 seconds in Greensboro
We never saw anyone,We had a HORRIBLE TRIP,NO FOOD except an overpriced soy burger,breakfast a near frozen muffin,Coffee only @ breakfast shut down after till next morn,we had roomette,We were starving the whole trip,NEVER AGAIN,You have been warned!.
@@packingten Amtrack is extremely expensive and slow. There is no reason to use it whatsoever unless you are like allergic to planes and cars.
@@MisterKewlz absolutely. So expensive now. Absolutely loved our couple trips out of zephyr out to California and back. Food was good, relaxing. Don't like flying. But now the prices are so high. A little bummed about that. It's probably been four years since I've done it
@@MisterKewlz I love it , I hate planes .
People called me odd for running to window just to see trains pass by in my town, but it's just something about them that hooks me. Really thank you for the video brother!
When I was
I traveled 3 time from Chicago to SF, 1 time from SF to Chicago. I enjoyed the west trips better than the east trip. I think the scenery you see going west is better. I have also traveled the Empire Builder 3 times;once to Seattle and twice to Portland. I love the train.
I’ve traveled on all three Amtrak trains that leave Chicago to the west coast. In my younger years when I couldn’t afford a sleeper room I traveled via coach then later in my life I’d get a roomette. I wish everyone could experience traveling by rail. You meet wonderful people from all walks of life and places. The meals served in the dinning room are amazing.
I'm recently retired and you made this video so fascinating. I am planning a trip like this for next year. I really enjoyed this tour. Thank you guys!!
Tips. Consider lenght of trip/time, most ar comfortable 48hr max. Like he mentioned.
And the roomettes meet the need of two people just fine. Open seating has lots of leng room and recline far enough to sleep in.
I have done it three times.. I recommend it.
Yes please make a movie of the pros and cons of each bedroom options
Ditto!
Kansas
You have a gift for showing us the beauty of rail travel while being real about the pros and cons. If you have never been I recommend the Chama and Durango scenic rail trips. Different from Amtrak but so beautiful.
Mooning trains is hilarious. As a kid I would ride my atv in between fields to a train track in the middle of nowhere and moon trains. Always got a thumb up and a laugh.
When I can travel back to the USA (I'm from the UK) this is the first thing I will do. Thank you for uploading this in proper 4k. I've watched 27 seconds and can see it's a good un.
The variation in landscapes is a sight to see, but to be honest, the US should be embarrassed to send visitors on such a sightful trip with leaking showers and TV dinners. One would think we would have the best amenities to offer. Either way, I welcome you here and hope you enjoy what is here.
@@dbsti3006 You were "Born Too Late".
My girlfriend and I took the Empire Builder last week and I am happy to report that normal meal service is back in full swing! :)
Is your girlfriend single?
We often get so wrapped up in our lives, we don’t take in actually how beautiful this country is! Such a remarkable video!
Good morning, Jeb: My husband and I enjoy your travel blogs when you go AMTRAK. I'm taking him on his first train ride to Boston next year around Thanksgiving Time of 2023. We got a bedroom with our own bathroom!! We both enjoy your blogs so much! LOVE THE BLOOPERS!! We sure appreciate your blogs!! With Love and Sunshine, Rob and Ted Martin-Brookes,, San Diego, California!!
I love the small towns. All these brings back memories. When I was 18 years. I used to talk to my first love every night for hours. I was in New York and he was In Colorado Spring Air Force Academy. He was also from Denver. I would call on weekends when he is at home in Denver. One day he broken my heart. It took me at least 32 years to heal. I even name my son after him. Thanks for the memories.
We took Amtrak from Chicago to New Orleans. Loved the experience; the bedroom is the way to go. We tipped our porter once we reached our destination; he deserved it and we felt was the right thing to do. Especially in these times where travel can be challenging for both the travelers and the people whose job it is to serve them.
I want to do this Zephyr trip from ORD to SFO with my fiance. Any advise? A sleeper car for only 2 people? What to pack, pillows, blankets, what does Amtrack provide and what don't they? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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Thank you for showcasing the beauty and diversity of landscape found in our country.
hey fellas. I've never seen a baby pigeon now that you mention it! 😆
I grew up in the foothills of Colorado and recently moved I cannot tell you how bummed I am not to be in the rockies anymore. Wherever you live in U.S or frankly anywhere in the world we should all try to truly enjoy it. Whether you live in the Rocky Mountains like I did or the plains of Nebraska it is all beautiful. God bless everyone!
I grew up in Littleton🌷
What a lovely comment, Molon
And God bless you too, friend.
I grew up in Bailey.
i miss hiking near denver, hated the city but if i drove 30 minutes west i would be in paradise
Every time I see the main hall of Union Station, it always reminds me in Silver Streak when the train comes crashing through.
And for those of you who don’t know, Silver Streak is an old 70’s comedy movie with Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor where a train gets hijacked.
And here I am thinking of my express line of the same name in LA! 🤣🤣 Good thing I kept reading.
Don't forget Continental Divide! Another gteat classic!👍
The Silver Streak actually crashed through old Dearborn Station, but I get where you coming from.
I traveled on this train sometime back. They have started preparing fresh food now as opposed to freeze-heated like in the video. So, fresher quality and wider range of options.
CZcams woke up one day & decided to recommend your videos. I’m now hooked.
I've riden that train three times and intend to do it again, round trip. Fabulous scenery, wonderful food, and great folks.
I’ m writing from Japan.
This video is amazing.
Thank you very much.
I wanna take Amtrack in the future.
Wow, Jeb! It’s incredible!
I rode this train, Zephyr….. 9 years ago already (2013, to be specific)! From the Windy City to the Nicest City of America! Really majestic experience! Miss America a lot!
Thank you so much for your beautiful video!
I smiled when I came across your comment, well that's wonderful but how are you doing and where are you from?, Please don't mind me asking you how are you doing but I know that's not bad question, will be happy to receive your reply, thanks.
I got on this very train in Denver in 1971 and went to San Francisco. It was amazing!
When the train began to ascend the Rockies, it felt like driving up the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur. Truly majestic.
I took that exact train as a single lady several years ago and I LOVED every minute of it. I felt very comfortable all the way . Would love to do it again, and I hope to. There are people to visit with or keep to your self. I took roomette and was great. Took a sleeper to Seattle and I loved it to. I love train travel
I would challenge the statement as the MOST scenic route of Amtrak as the Empire builder also leaves Chicago for its trip to Seattle across the country across the plains through the Northern Rockies and finally the trip through the Cascade mountains to get to Seattle. It too crosses the Columbia river and through the famous cascade tunnel as well as many other tunnels, same spectacular scenery and almost as long !!
great country some people just don't realize how beautiful it is thank you for the journey
We need to expand our rail systems including speed train.
No we dont
@@alvarotorres9057 I love trains, I would like to see more scenic trips all across this country, with more stops in small towns.
@@lewiechase8608 it’s so hard to maintain these train routes without significant subsidies. It’s hard to justify that when we have so many bridges and other transportation points that receive more use and are in significant need of repairs or upgrades.
@@Shadowfax-1980 I am not talking about building new, I am just wanting more stops in small towns that all. It will take longer, but they can have express trains also, all without building new.
@@Shadowfax-1980 Besides, if we can give thousands of dollars to crackhead's, in stimulus money and so forth, and they are still giving it away. Then I think we can spend a little bit of money on trains. With modern new machinery and new tech, it isn't as expensive as it was back in the day, I know that I said spend no money at first, but this is just an after thought. I am not talking about a huge amount of money, but yeah they could spend some, and still do the other part, I had talked about.
FYI mooning the passing train isn’t meant to be insulting or derogatory, its a long standing friendly tradition. Usually makes the train crowd chuckle
That's what we thought, Melvin.
Glad that you explained that, would never have guessed.
I have mooned and been mooned on highways via car - if you are offended by it, you need to leave the US and never come back.
Yup, started as a dare to get free beers in a pub in Southern California back in the 70's.
Either that, or, knowing Colorado - they're mooning it because it says 'California' on the side lol
Great photography, editing, specific information and super quality voice over. Very understandable. Im going to travel soon in a BEDROOM car across the country and after watching this I'm sure of every thing I'll need to do and expect. Can't say enough good about this video. (Oh and the food, sounds soooo good) Jeb has a shorter video about pricing that is excellent too. Fantastic job Jeb. Thank you so much. I can't wait! 😀👍
I really appreciate this video. It's hard to believe I'm 69 years old I've never been on a train now I've been on local subways trolleys never been on a train. I'm looking forward to doing this with my wife. Thank you so much it's great you make it very interesting
The last time I was on the Zephyr was in December of 1950, or over 70 years ago. My mother and I had a roomette from Sacramento to Chicago. But the best part of the trip, which apparently no longer exists, is up the Feather River through the Feather River Gorge. Nothing I saw on your trip begins to compare with the scenery in the gorge. It is too bad they dropped that portion of the trip.
Last time I was on the train to Chicago was just before the 9-11attacks
What an experience
Tell me about it
@@getonthecrossanddontlookba5004 who?
I live in Rifle, CO. The best part of that trip is 40 minutes from my house, heh.
@@thisisaname5589 I am looking forward to visiting Rifle, CO. Just to have a meal... ;-)
The Observation Car on my trip was “reserved” for those in “sleeper cars” simply because it was small. Loved it: it had snacks, juice and coffee!
Thank you. Your videos make me smile. Keep up the good work.
I love your calming voice, background music and I truly felt I was on this trip too! So relaxinng! :)
The Colorado scenery reminds me of the show "Snowpiercer."
Thank you Jeb for an incredible chronicle of this trip! I am taking my first solo vacation of my entire life (55 years old) and I chose this trip. You have prepared me well for my adventure! I have subscribed. Amazing video!
Have a fantastic time!
👍👍
I am also planning this trip in October
Very cool. Gokd luck.
solo travel is fun, do whatever you want at any given time
I really enjoy your videos. Overnight rail travel is one of my favourite things … watching the scenery change at a leisurely pace really gives you a feel for a country. I’m from the uk and next year we’re planning on taking this very same train journey. Thanks for your videos keen them coming! 😀😀
THE MOST UNCOMFORTABLE SLEEP YOU Will EVER HAVE. OUTSIDE OF THAT A GREAT RIDE.
I took this same train in 2018 when I graduated high school! This does a fantastic job of highlighting everything.
"mooning" the Zephyr is tradition! All in good fun :)
Jeb, you’ve posted another fantastic vlog that I enjoyed so much, start to finish. It was so well done with your excellent descriptions, observations and tips along the way! I just found a new bucket list item so my wife and I are going to book the Zephyr from Chicago to Emeryville very soon!! Thanks for sharing your trip with us!
Planning a trip with my son on the Amtrak from California to Colorado to visit my sister watching this video, making me more excited for all the memories and adventure, my son and I will have
From the Metropolis of Chicago through the Great Plains through the Rocky Mountains through the Redwood Forests, we have covered most of the USA!
God bless this land
You have a beautiful country, beautiful lands, greetings from Argentina
@@arycacace3733 ❤️🇦🇷
@Jay Jonson What country are you talking about?
@@ViscidBeltUSA Thank you, believe it or not our countries have too much in common, culture is mainly very similar, especially to the south and center of your country, and our lands are just as diverse as theirs, And above all the same story of founding, immigration and state formation, greetings.
@Jay Jonson Oh yes I know, there is a lot of difference there between red and blue, the blue ones are tax hells, not for nothing do they decay and migrate to the red ones, greetings.
This video made me take the Zephyr journey. It was transformative. Absolutely one of the most unique and gorgeous experiences I’ve ever had. Our train was delayed by 5 hours so we got a lot of extra time in our sleeper. I wasn’t complaining as I booked a day pad on each terminus. I suggest everyone do the same. Do not rely on this train being on time. Get there a day before departure and stay a day after disembarking so you have ample time to catch a flight home. Thank you for this video, Jeb! Would love to see you do the Coastal Starlight. I would really love to do that journey. I hear amazing things about it.
I’m so glad you went and had a great time!
What's a day pad please?
@@VictoriaHannahStudio maybe an extra day to allow for delays? Probably not a room for a day...
Just arrive a day before departing on the train and a day after scheduled return. Leave time for other travel on each end of your Amtrak journey bc you cannot depend on it being on time at either end.
The degree of feeling alive through your lense can not be measured! I flat out love your videos! You are indeed living out many people's dreams!
My mother & I last went from Minneapolis to Pirtland 66 years ago. I look forward to doing it again.
Wonderful journey presentation, exotic scenery outside and a lotta activities inside, a dream to travel here some day !!
SA,,,
It's not wonderful
exotic scenery hahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!
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Greeting from Myanmar (Burma)! My parents and I did this route back in 2012 right after my college graduation. They were initially unimpressed with the big city side of America but were amazed by the scenaries they saw along this route. My favourite part of the route was stopping at a beautiful small town rainroad station in Buena Vista (or Glenwood Springs?), CO and snow started to fall in late May. This clip brought back so much memories.Thank you!
Wow.....thanks for the nice video...your journey is really makes me so exiting ..i remember my journey from Chicago to New Orleans 3 years ago.....you are such a warm family guy....may you surrounding by happiness and always stay healthy .......nice greeting from Jakarta, Indonesia
Just took the ride from Denver to Emeryville. Some recommendations. 1)Get a bedroom and avoid the roomette. It's just too small. 2)Bring food from your favorite deli (assuming you have access to one). Suffice to say, the airlines are much better at serving reheated food than Amtrak. 3)Consider limiting your ride to the state of Colorado. To be honest, the beautiful scenery becomes numbing after a while. Perhaps I would have felt better about it if we had a bigger room. 4)Last, the train is often late (over two hours in our case), so, dont plan on anything based on your arrival time. Enjoy!
Full service dining on western trains is coming back later this summer. As for attendants, I tend to tip $10 plus an additional $10 per night.
A bit more history about the California Zephyr: the original service was discontinued in 1970 when the Western Pacific ceased passenger service along their section of the route. The Burlington Northern ran a service between Chicago and Denver, while the Rio Grande ran the Rio Grande Zephyr as a daylight service between Salt Lake City and Denver. Upon the formation of Amtrak in 1971, the Rio Grande declined to join, so Amtrak's San Francisco Zephyr was routed via Cheyenne and Ogden, while using the Southern Pacific route over Donner Pass rather than the Western Pacific route through the Feather River Canyon. In 1983, the Rio Grande, still using original equipment from the 1950s California Zephyr from the locomotives to the observation car, joined Amtrak, ending privately run passenger service in the United States. With Amtrak returning to the Moffett Route, the California Zephyr name was brought back. A few of the old locomotives for the original Zephyr still exist from all three railroads, as do quite a few passenger cars. The only other reroute to the train took place in the wake of the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake when the Oakland Pier station was heavily damaged. A new station at Emeryville was built and the Zephyr currently terminates there. An extension back into Oakland Proper was explored, but the train would have to reverse through the middle of Jack London Square to reach the yard, so that option was nixed. Passengers can book all the way to San Francisco, and they will be transferred onto buses at Emeryville for the trip over the Bay Bridge.
Back sometime in the 1970's I fondly remember taking the trip from Denver to Glenwood Springs on the D & RGW. As stated, TOTALLY amazing scenery!!!
Later, sometime in late 1980's/early 1990's, I did the route again, this time via Amtrak; I took the Zephyr from Denver to Salt Lake City, then took the (now discontinued) Desert Wind to Los Angeles.
Editing 52 hours down to 34 minutes is a challenge; still it would have been fun to see video from Winter Park, when the train exits the Moffat Tunnel.
And, as a trivia note, assuming they restart the ski train service from Denver to Winter Park, those train cars are (last I heard) the original D & RGW cars from back in the 1970's (or possibly even earlier).
I dont remember asking
Great ride & helpful history...these Amtrak tips are so wonderful !
This was incredible! I work for United Airlines and been pass riding for 35 years, I’ve been all over the world & bless to work for a great company with all the benefits including flying for free and only paying taxes for international flights, but I must say this is on my bucket list’s to ride this Zephyr to California. I live in Chicago and definitely going to relax and have Amtrak take me there. I have friends who live in Sonoma Valley and will take extra days to plan this trip, the views were wonderful.thanks again peace!
Heck ya! Former AA ramp agent here 👋 the benefits there were great and this ride looks amazing
I completely agree with you
Extra-ordinary, breathtaking, iconic...I am short of words!
THANK YOU !!
You just took me on my dream tour!
A friend and I did the West-to-East road trip in 1977, and coming up to Utah after driving thru Vegas on a Saturday night 😉, we hit Zion N.P. at sunrise. "Stunning" is too bland a word for what that looked like!
We hooked up with Rt. 70, and I think The Eisenhower Tunnel had just recently opened (Ike had a vision of easy access through the Rockies, but I don't think he envisioned the massive traffic jams that would ensue, especially during the ski season 🤪)!
Anyway, thank you for the trip of a lifetime...and I didn't even have to drive through the best parts, either ! 🫠
I took this trip at age 15, one of my first trips alone and most memorable.
Thanks for the video. Now that I’m retired , once again want to make this journey
Had an ancestor who began his career on this Zephyr route seven years after the transcontinental rail was completed. On the first day he got a job as a conductor which lasted only minutes. Have to be a conductor before becoming a fireman. Then he became a fireman. "Mountains and sweat...Mountains and sweat" he wrote in his letters. A fireman was a tough job back then. Many firemen would quit. In time he became a second class engineer and later a first class engineer. When he got older he was transferred from the railroad to a locomotive manufacturing plant and there one day he dropped dead on the work floor from a heart attack. His son went to college for steam engineering. The railroad and a locomotive manufacturing company paid for his college because his father was such a good worker. The son later worked as a subcontractor for a english guy named Parsons and helped Parsons develop his practical steam turbine which was installed in a ship called the Turbinia.